Multi-part sole and heel assembly

ABSTRACT

A multi-part sole and heel assembly is provided. The multi-part sole and heel assembly may be embodied as an apparatus or assembly, having a sole portion and a heel portion. The multi-part sole and heel assembly may include a soft sole second layer applied to an inner surface of a first outermost sole layer, wherein the soft sole second layer further comprises a soft sole landing area configured to provide comfort for a foot and displace sounds and impact force effects during a step.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/713,943, filed Aug. 2, 2018, which is herein incorporated in its entirety. It is intended that the referenced application may be applicable to the concepts and embodiments disclosed herein, even if such concepts and embodiments are disclosed in the referenced applications with different limitations and configurations and described using different examples and terminology.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to sound reducing, shock absorbent, comfort cushioning, assemblies and systems for footwear.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In some situations, wearing dress shoes can be painful and noisy for those who wear the shoes. For men and women, dress shoes may cause pain as the limited padding and hard soles can cause discomfort. In many instances, wearing dress shoes for extended periods can result in greater pain for wearers. The pain may be more intense for wearers of high heel shoes.

In normal instances, the upright foot is used to balance on both its front and its back. Therefore, when a wearer tilts the foot forward into a pair of high heel shoes, a wearer's forefoot starts to feel pressure. For example, this pain in the joints in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can even lead to stress fractures over time. Thus, the conventional strategy is to either reduce the height of the heel to reduce the pressure on the wearer's forefoot. For example, while three-inch heels put 76 percent of your foot's pressure on your forefoot, two-inch heels decrease the pressure to about 57 percent, and one-inch heels lower it to 22 percent cutting the pain by more than half with a decrease of just two inches.

This often causes problems because the conventional strategy does not account for other physical damage associated with wearing high heel shoes. For example, when wearing high heel shoes, the Achilles tendon, or the band of tissue stretching from the back of a wearer's heel all the way to the calf, lengthens and shortens with foot movement. When a wearer points the toes and the heel rises closer to the wearer's calf, the Achilles tendon shortens. Excessive shortening causes painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis.

Additionally, wearing high heel shoes for long periods of time can irritate the toes. For example, some wearers may develop hammertoes, bunions, muscle imbalances, and chaffing skin on the foot resulting from the intense pressure on the foot. Designs of some high heel shoes may be too small for a wearer's feet resulting in blisters, corns, and irritated foot joints. Moreover, excessive wearing of high heels can cause nerve damage as well as place tremendous pressure on knees, joints and damage muscles that control posture. Furthermore, wearing high heels as currently constructed may decrease ankle strength, cause varicose veins, and cause back problems.

Along with discomfort, dress shoes and boots for men and women usually have a hard sole and make a loud sound with each step. This can be very distracting especially in the workplace and other quiet environments that may require concentration. The disruption of workflow and important activities can be eliminated while still wearing professional footwear.

Accordingly, there remains a need for improved construction of high heel shoes in a manner which reduces these negative effects. This need and other needs are satisfied by the various aspects of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In accordance with the purposes of the disclosure, as embodied and broadly described herein, the disclosure, in one aspect, relates to shock absorbent, comfort cushioning systems for footwear. In further aspects, a multi-part sole and heel assembly is provided.

In another exemplary aspect, the disclosure relates to cushioning and shock absorbent components assembled for a footwear apparatus. In further aspects, the footwear apparatus may be a high heel shoe, a dress shoe, or other shoe. In still further aspects the shoe may be a men's or women's dress shoe. In yet further aspects, the disclosed apparatuses may be embodied as an article of footwear, such as, dress shoes, boots, and the like.

In further aspects, the disclosure also relates to a soft sole and heel for an article of footwear, such as, for example, dress shoes and boots for a quiet, stable, and stylish footstep.

Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or can be learned by practice of the disclosure. The advantages of the disclosure will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the disclosure, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosure and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

FIGS. 1A-1B show depictions of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 shows a flow chart of a method for making an article of footwear using a disclosed multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description of the disclosure and the Examples included therein.

Before the present articles, systems, assembly, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that they are not limited to specific manufacturing methods unless otherwise specified, or to particular materials unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure, example methods and materials are now described.

All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to disclose and describe the methods and/or materials in connection with which the publications are cited.

A. Definitions

It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in the specification and in the claims, the term “comprising” can include the aspects “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In this specification and in the claims, which follow, reference will be made to a number of terms which shall be defined herein.

As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “an opening” can include two or more openings.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from one particular value, and/or to another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent ‘about,’ it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understood that there are a number of values disclosed herein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. It is also understood that each unit between two particular units are also disclosed. For example, if 10 and 15 are disclosed, then 11, 12, 13, and 14 are also disclosed.

As used herein, the terms “about” and “at or about” mean that the amount or value in question can be the value designated some other value approximately or about the same. It is generally understood, as used herein, that it is the nominal value indicated ±10% variation unless otherwise indicated or inferred. The term is intended to convey that similar values promote equivalent results or effects recited in the claims. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but can be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is “about” or “approximate” whether or not expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where “about” is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.

The terms “first,” “second,” “first part,” “second part,” and the like, where used herein, do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, and are used to distinguish one element from another, unless specifically stated otherwise.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not. For example, the phrase “optionally affixed to the surface” means that it can or cannot be fixed to a surface.

Moreover, it is to be understood that unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

Disclosed are the components to be used to manufacture the disclosed assembly, systems, and articles of the disclosure as well as the assembly themselves to be used within the methods disclosed herein. These and other materials are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these materials are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutation of these materials cannot be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein. For example, if a particular material is disclosed and discussed and a number of modifications that can be made to the materials are discussed, specifically contemplated is each and every combination and permutation of the material and the modifications that are possible unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Thus, if a class of materials A, B, and C are disclosed as well as a class of materials D, E, and F and an example of a combination material, A-D is disclosed, then even if each is not individually recited each is individually and collectively contemplated meaning combinations, A-E, A-F, B-D, B-E, B-F, C-D, C-E, and C-F are considered disclosed. Likewise, any subset or combination of these is also disclosed. Thus, for example, the sub-group of A-E, B-F, and C-E would be considered disclosed. This concept applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in methods of making and using the articles and assembly of the disclosure. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific aspect or combination of aspects of the methods of the disclosure.

It is understood that the assembly and systems disclosed herein have certain functions. Disclosed herein are certain structural requirements for performing the disclosed functions, and it is understood that there are a variety of structures that can perform the same function that are related to the disclosed structures, and that these structures will typically achieve the same result.

Multi-part Sole and Heel Assembly and System

As briefly described above, the present disclosure relates, in various aspects, to a multi-part sole and heel assembly. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a soft sole and heel of a shoe. In further aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly may be configured for to provide a soft padded, quiet soled, sturdy shoe. In still further aspects, the shoe assembly may be a men's or women's dress shoe. In even further aspects, the shoe assembly may be a women's high heel shoe.

In further aspects, the present disclosure also relates to devices and systems for reducing sounds, applied forces and/or impact associated with an article of footwear during use, such as during walking or the like. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a sound-dampening article of footwear, such as a shoe. In further aspect, the present disclosure provides a dampening assembly for an article of footwear, the assembly comprising: at least one support substrate connected to at least a portion of an upper or sole or a combination thereof, and at least one dampening member having first and second opposed ends, the first ends of the dampening members being connected to a portion of the support substrate. In still further aspects, the support substrate can comprise a support frame or other support structure.

In various aspects, the support substrate can comprise many various configurations and shapes. In further aspects, the support substrate can comprise a ball portion and a heel portion. In still further aspects, the ball portion of the support substrate can be shaped to be disposed under a portion of the ball region of a wearer's foot. In yet further aspects, the heel portion of the support substrate can be shaped to be disposed under a back portion or heel region of a wearer's foot. In some aspects, the ball portion of the support frame can be disposed under a top portion of an upper, such as a shoe upper. In other aspects, the heel portion of the support substrate can be shaped to be disposed under a back portion of the upper.

In other aspects, the ball portion and/or the heel portion may further comprise a sole portion. In further aspects, the sole portion may comprise a support substrate or element extending from one side of the shoe to another side of the shoe. In even further aspects, the sole portion may be disposed under a portion of the ball area (e.g., adjacent to the heads of the metatarsal bones) and/or heel area (e.g., adjacent to prominence based on the heel bone at the posterior end of the foot) of a wearer's foot.

In further aspects, the assembly can further comprise a support substrate having at least one dampening member connected to a portion of the support substrate. In still further aspects, the support substrate can be connected to at least a portion of the upper or sole, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the support substrate can be connected to an outer surface of the upper and/or sole. In other aspects, the support substrate can be connected to an inner surface of the upper and/or sole. In yet other aspects, the support substrate can be integrally connected between an outer surface and inner surface of the upper and/or sole.

In further aspects, the assembly can further comprise heel support substrate having at least one dampening member connected to a portion of the heel support substrate. In still further aspects, the assembly may further comprise at least one ball support substrate. In yet further aspects, the ball support substrate may be connected to the heel support substrate. In even further aspects, the heel and/or ball support substrates can be connected to at least a portion of the upper or rear sole, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the heel and/or ball support substrates can be connected to an outer surface of the upper and/or sole. In other aspects, the heel and/or ball support substrates can be connected to an inner surface of the upper and/or sole. In yet other aspects, the heel and/or ball support substrates can be integrally connected between an outer surface and inner surface of the upper and/or sole.

In further aspects, one or more support substrates can be connected to an outer surface of the upper. In still further aspects, the support substrate can be connected to an inner surface of the upper. In yet further aspects, the support substrate can be integrally connected between an outer surface and inner surface of the upper and/or sole. In even further aspects, the support substrate can be connected to an outer surface of the sole. In still further aspects, the support substrate can be connected to an inner surface of the sole. In yet further aspects, the support substrate can be integrally connected between an outer surface and inner surface of the sole.

In some aspects, a portion of the members may extend outward a predetermined direction at a predetermined angle from their connection or attachment point. In further aspects, the portion of the members can each extend away from the remaining portion of the member at an angle in the range of from greater than about 1 degrees to about 120 degrees. In still further aspects, a portion of the first or second ends of the members can each extend outward a predetermined direction at a predetermined angle. In yet further aspects, a portion of the frame member can each extend away from an attached portion of the member at an angle in the range of from about 1 degrees to about 120 degrees.

In various aspects, the component arrangement and construction of the assembly can be configured to correspond to areas of a user's foot where impact forces and sounds are greatest. In further aspects, the support substrate can be connected to portions of the upper corresponding to the ball of the foot and/or or heel of the foot. In still further aspects, one or more dampening members may be configured in a stable arrangement such than the member can stay vertical or at a predetermined angle when loads are applied to the member. In yet further aspects, at least one members can be connected to the support substrate at a location corresponding to a heel of a wearer's foot.

In further aspects, at least one dampening member can be connected to a rear portion of the upper. In still further aspects, at least one member can be connected to a heel support substrate at a rear portion of the upper adjacent to a location corresponding to a heel of a wearer's foot. In some aspects, a plurality of members can be connected to a heel support substrate. In other aspects, the assembly can comprise a ball support substrate connected at a front portion of the upper adjacent to a location corresponding to a ball of a wearer's foot; and a heel support substrate having at least one member can be connected to the heel support substrate at a rear portion of the upper adjacent to a location corresponding to a heel of a wearer's foot.

In various aspects, the position of the member can be configured or changed with respect to the upper and sole to permit changes to the sound-attenuation characteristics of the article of footwear or other foot-receiving devices. In further aspects, the members can comprise a plurality of connection points for attaching to the shoe.

In further aspects, the dampening members may extend from a portion of the upper or support substrate (e.g., an attachment or connection point) beyond an outermost surface of the sole. In still further aspects, the second ends of members can extend a predetermined distance beyond an outermost surface of the sole or shoe. In yet further aspects, the predetermined distance can be from about 1 cm to about 50 cm.

In further aspects, the dampening member can comprise at least one foot, leg and/or body member, or a combination thereof. In still further aspects, the dampening member can comprise a sound-dampening component configured to attenuate a sound or force. In yet further aspects, the dampening member can be configured to have any desired level of attenuation. For example, according to some aspects, the level of attenuation can comprise from about 1% to about 99% or more attenuation of ground impact sounds created by the wearer's feet during walking.

As further described herein, the damping members can utilize mechanical properties and benefits of the sound-dampening component (compressible material, or the like) for impact absorption. In further aspects, the sound-dampening component can be a compression mechanism, compressible foam, and/or other components made out of suitable materials. In still further aspects, the sound-dampening component can comprise shock-absorbing materials, such as, for example, gels, air, gas, hydraulic, foam, a combination thereof or the like. In some aspects, the body member can be a cylindrical or semi cylindrical frame member capable of and configured to connect with sound-dampening component.

In various aspects, the dampening member can have an extended position and a compressed position. For example, the dampening members can be configured to compress or flatten out to a compressed position from an extended position under an impact force applied to a base or end portion (e.g., from taking a step or walking). In further aspects, the dampening members can be configured to return back to an extended position or toward its original size, shape, and orientation once the impact force is removed or relieved. In some aspects, a portion of the leg or body members can be configured to compress or flatten out to a compressed position under an impact force applied to a base or foot portion (e.g., from taking a step or walking, as described above).

Since the members may contact the ground, the second end of the members can comprise a surface-contacting portion configured to contact the ground, such as, for example, a shoe-sole like bottom used for traction. In some aspects, the surface-contacting portion can be configured or angled to maximize surface area contact with a surface when the shoe is moved toward the surface.

In further aspects, the foot of the member can be a structure that contacts the ground or any other surface. In still further aspects, the foot can comprise a gripping portion. In yet further aspects, the gripping portion can be pivotally connected. In even further aspects, the gripping portion can comprise a high friction or grip material. In some aspects, the gripping portion can be substantially flat. In other aspects, the gripping portion can be curved or angled.

In further aspects, the dampening member characteristics, such as, for example, size and dimensions, can be configured to adjust for an individual user's weight, feet size, and other factors to achieve optimal load balancing and distribution. In further aspects, features of the shock-absorbing member may be configured or utilized to set and/or control the sound-attenuation and related characteristics of the member. For example, at least one of the following may be configured: the type of material used for the member; the member dimensions (e.g., height, width, thickness, leg width, length, thickness, curvature, etc.; surface-contacting portion thickness, width, etc.); the flexibility of the dampening material; and the extent of exterior surface coverage of surface-contacting portion. In further aspects, the dampening member may have an overall length of from about 0.1 inch to about 30 inches or more, including exemplary lengths of about 0.5,1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5. 9.0, 9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 11.5, 12.0, 12.5, 13.0, 13.5, 14.0, 14.5, 15.0, 15.5, 16.0, 16.5, 17.0, 17.5, 18.0, 18.5, 19.0, 19.5, 20.0, 20.5, 21.0, 21.5, 22.0, 22.5, 23.0, 23.5, 24.0, 24.5, 25.0, 25.5, 26.0, 26.5, 27.0, 27.5, 28.0, 28.5, 29.0, 29.5, 30.0 inches and more. In yet further aspects, the length may be longer, such as a length required for an oversized shoe that may be used for a costume or promotional display. In still further aspects, the shock-absorbing member may have a diameter of from about 0.2 inch to about 2.0 inches, including exemplary diameters of about 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.5 inches or more. In even further aspects, the shock-absorbing member may have a diameter of from about 0.2 feet to about 2.0 feet, including exemplary diameters of about 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 1.2, and 1.5 feet or more, such as might be required for an oversized shoe as described above.

In further aspects, while the assemblies described herein can be permanently mounted in or on an article of footwear or other foot-receiving device structures, this is not a requirement. For example, an assembly can be removably mounted in or on footwear or other foot-receiving device structures, e.g., to allow interchange and/or replacement of the assembly. Thus, according to further aspects, the present disclosure also provides a replaceable assembly for an article of footwear. In still further aspects, one or more dampening members, or components thereof, can be detachably connected to the support substrate and/or footwear, e.g., to allow interchange and/or replacement of one or more members or portions (individually or as a unit with multiple members in an assembly). Such configurations allow users, purchasers, retailers, or others to select desired sound-attenuating properties or levels in a footwear structure, e.g., for customization purposes, for personal preferences, to match desired use or a user's or shoe's physical characteristics or to repair or replace defective or damaged members, or portions thereof

In further aspects, the disclosed assembly may be configured such that it may be applied to dress shoes for men and women. In other aspects, the disclosed assembly may be particularly configured women's high heel shoes. In yet other aspects, the disclosed assembly may be configured to provide stability, a quiet sole, such that when used with existing shoes, the assembly doesn't change the external appearance of a shoe. In still further aspects, the assembly can be useful for replacing metal (i.e. hard) bottom soled shoes with a different material that can be durable, yet soft enough to provide comfort and a quiet impact between the bottom of shoe and hard surface floors when walking

In various aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly may be constructed using a multi-part sole design. In further aspects, the multi-part sole design may comprise a two-part sole design comprising multiple urethane plastics that have a range of various durometer or hardness. In still further aspects, the durometer can range from about 00 to about 70, including any values therebetween. In an exemplary aspect, the assembly further comprises at least two layers, each layer comprising different durometer urethane plastics. In further aspects, a first layer may comprise an open portion or empty portion, and a second layer may comprise an elevated or raised portion corresponding to the open portion of the first layer. In still further aspects, the raised portion may be shaped and sized to match the open portion of the first layer such that when the first and second layers are coupled, the raised portion fits within the open portion to allow the remaining surfaces of the second layers to be above the first layer. In some aspects, the thickness of the raised portion of a second layer may be substantially identical to the thickness of the first layer such that when the first and second layer are coupled, the surface of the raised portion is substantially flush with the adjacent surface of the first layer. In other aspects, the thickness of the raised portion of a second layer may be slightly thicker than the thickness of the first layer such that when the first and second layer are coupled, the surface of the raised portion is slightly above the adjacent surface of the first layer. To this end, the slightly higher surface portion may correspond to the area of the foot that would normally contact the ground first, and may comprise a material having superior sound-dampening properties.

The urethane plastics may be further configured such that the textures beneath the plastic sole may further comprise a foam cushion. The foam cushion may comprise various foam compositions such as, but not limited to extruded thermoplastic or urethane. In still further aspects, the assembly may further comprise at least one of: athletic shoe material, silicone, low density rubber, spring steel, and dragon skin elastic compounds.

In other aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly may be developed based on sneaker designs to give a good amount of stability to compliment the softer materials. In yet other aspects, a heel cap may be configured such that it is one or more of: durometer urethane plastics, foam compositions, extruded thermoplastic or urethane, athletic shoe material, silicone, low density rubber, spring steel, dragon skin elastic compounds.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-part sole and heel assembly having a leather base layer. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-part sole and heel assembly having a suede base layer.

In still another aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-part sole and heel assembly comprising one or more of: a foam boost material, injection molded gel, injection molded silicone. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-part sole and heel assembly having a foam material which can be malleable and conforms to a wearer foot shape wherein the foam material can be colored or dyed. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a multi-part sole and heel assembly further comprising injection molded components which may comprise at least one of silicone, plastic, or gel.

In various aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly may be embodied as an apparatus, comprising a foam insert affixed to a base layer, wherein the base layer comprises a low-density rubber, and a leather substrate configured to bond at a midsole.

In further aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly further comprising a sole assembly comprising: a sole first layer, wherein the sole first layer comprises an upper sole lining; and a sole second layer, wherein the sole second layer comprises an undersole lining.

In further aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly further comprising: a sole heel assembly comprising a sole heel laminate affixed to a heel member; and a sole heel portion affixed to a base of the heel member.

In other aspects, the multi-part sole and heel assembly further comprising: a disclosed apparatus, wherein the multi-part sole and heel assembly further comprises a two-part sole comprising a first part having a first hardness and a second part having a different hardness, wherein the two-part sole further comprises at least two different durometer urethane plastics. In further aspects, the first part may comprise an open portion or empty portion, and the second part may comprise an elevated or raised portion corresponding to the open portion of the first part. In still further aspects, the raised portion may be shaped and sized to match the open portion of the first part such that when the first and second layers are coupled, the raised portion fits within the open portion to allow the remaining surfaces of the first and second layers to be flush against one another. In some aspects, the thickness of the raised portion of a second layer may be substantially identical to the thickness of the first layer such that when the first and second layer are coupled, the surface of the raised portion is substantially flush with the adjacent surface of the first layer. In other aspects, the thickness of the raised portion of a second layer may be slightly thicker than the thickness of the first layer such that when the first and second layer are coupled, the surface of the raised portion is slightly above the adjacent surface of the first layer. To this end, the slightly higher surface portion may correspond to the area of the foot that would normally contact the ground first, and may comprise a material having superior sound-dampening properties. In further aspects, at least one part or layer may further comprise a foam cushion or material wherein the foam cushion further comprises one or more of: foam compositions, extruded thermoplastic or urethane materials, athletic shoe material, silicone, low density rubber, spring steel, dragon skin elastic compounds.

The multi-part sole and heel assembly may further comprise a heel cap may be configured such that it is one or more of: durometer urethane plastics, foam compositions, extruded thermoplastic or urethane, athletic shoe material, silicone, low density rubber, spring steel, dragon skin elastic compounds.

In further aspects, the support substrate can comprise a wide variety of relatively stiff, but pliable materials, such as, but not limited to, plastic, steel, aluminum, metal alloys, thermoplastic resin, ceramic, rigid plastic material, reinforced plastic or composite materials, polyethylene, polypropylene, wood (plywood, bamboo, or the like), magnesium, carbon fiber, high density rigid foam, or other strong flexible textile materials, or a combination thereof.

In further aspects, the upper or body can be comprised of fabric, cloth, plastic, woven or non-woven, natural or synthetic, leather, polyurethane, microfiber leather, faux leather and PU leather, Nylon, cotton or the like. In yet further aspects, the sole or sole portion can be comprised of any suitable material, such as, for example, rubber, high density cushioning foam, foam and fabric, or other material adapted for ground impact. In some aspects, the sole may comprise a tread pattern to provide traction. In other aspects, the sole may contain a flat bottom and in other aspects it may have designed groove patterns to minimize the use of materials to only the essential areas.

According to various further aspects of the disclosure, the multi-part sole and heel assembly and systems can comprise multiple configurations. For example, various exemplary embodiments of the multi-party sole and heel assembly and systems are shown in FIGS. 1A-9. In aspects, FIGS. 1A-8 show various views and features of an exemplary assembly for the multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1A, 100 shows top and bottom views of multi-part sole and heel assembly and FIG. 1B, 105 shows an exploded view of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The multi-part sole and heel assembly comprises a soft sole second layer 104 applied to an inner surface of the first outermost sole layer 102, wherein the soft sole second layer further comprises a soft sole landing area 106 configured to provide comfort for a foot and displace sounds and impact force effects of the metal insert during a step.

FIG. 2, 205 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, FIG. 2 depicts a composition of the multi-part sole and heel assembly. A component may be stitched to midsole comprising three laminated layers to form the soft sole assembly. The three components are shown as: a substrate 202, such as a leather substrate, which may be configured for bonding to a midsole; a low-density rubber layer 204, which may be configured to dampen sound and provide proper grip; and foam insert 206, which may be configured to provide comfort, stability, and/or dampen sound.

FIG. 3, 300 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary sole portion construction of the multi-part sole and heel assembly comprising a leather form layer 302, a deforming foam sole layer 304 (not shown to scale), and a low-density textured grip layer 306, and heel portion 308 of assembly which comprises a corresponding construction. The sole portion is configured to be attached to shoe upper 301.

FIG. 4, 400 shows a depiction of a women's high heeled shoe showing an area 402 with metal insert responsible for noise in most shoes. FIG. 5, 500 shows a depiction of a women's high heeled shoe interacting with the ground. As shown, the angle of approach for a traditional shoe causes the metal plate to interact with the ground (circled area, 502) and make noise. The remaining parts of the shoe remain off the ground (arrow, 504) and do not interact with the ground until the step is completed. Accordingly, these parts of the sole are for traction only, and do not substantially contribute to noise generation. FIG. 6, 600 shows a depiction of a model lining 602, and template shape layer 608 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Molded lining 602 shows a first wear area 604 from a wearer's foot based on foot anatomy and a second wear area 606 from a metal arch insert found in high heel shoes. Template layer 608 shows a sample sole layer where the sound dampening area 610 is located.

FIG. 7, 700 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Further FIG. 7 shows the multi-part sole and heel assembly comprising a soft sole second layer applied to an inner surface of the first outermost sole layer 702, wherein the soft sole second layer further comprises: a first soft sole landing area 704 configured to provide comfort for a foot during a step; and a second soft sole landing area 706 configured to displace sounds and impact force effects of the metal insert.

FIG. 8, 800 shows a depiction of a multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Further FIG. 9 shows the top side of the multi-part sole and heel assembly comprising soft sole second layer 804 applied to an inner surface of the first outermost sole layer 802. The inner surface of soft sole second layer may comprise a soft inner lining to provide comfort and support such that this lining is also configured to dampen the sound of the shoe on the hard floor. The first outermost sole layer 802 may comprise a single layer lined heel laminate wherein this lining provides cohesive aesthetic along the underside of the shoe.

The present disclosure, according to further aspects, also provides methods of using the disclosed assemblies, devices, and systems. In one aspect, disclosed herein is a method for using the multi-part sole and heel assembly.

FIG. 9 shows a depiction of a method of using the multi-part sole and heel assembly in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 1200 may begin at starting block 1205 and proceed to stage 1210 where multi-part sole and heel assembly may apply a soft sole first layer to an upper sole lining. From stage 1210, where multi-part sole and heel assembly applying a soft sole first layer to an upper sole lining, method 1200 may advance to stage 1220 where multi-part sole and heel assembly may apply a soft sole second layer to an under sole lining. Once multi-part sole and heel assembly applies a soft sole second layer to an under sole lining in stage 1220, method 1200 may continue to stage 1230 where multi-part sole and heel assembly may apply a soft sole heel laminate to a heel member. After multi-part sole and heel assembly applies a soft sole heel laminate to a heel member in stage 1230, method 1200 may proceed to stage 1240 where multi-part sole and heel assembly may apply a soft sole heel portion to a base of the heel member. Once the multi-part sole and heel assembly applies a soft sole heel portion to a base of the heel member in stage 1240, method 1200 may then end at stage 1250.

While aspects of the present disclosure can be described and claimed in a particular statutory class, such as the system statutory class, this is for convenience only and one of skill in the art will understand that each aspect of the present disclosure can be described and claimed in any statutory class. Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method or aspect set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not specifically state in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way appreciably intended that an order be inferred, in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including matters of logic with respect to arrangement of steps or operational flow, plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, or the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

Throughout this application, various publications can be referenced. The disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application in order to more fully describe the state of the art to which this pertains. The references disclosed are also individually and specifically incorporated by reference herein for the material contained in them that is discussed in the sentence in which the reference is relied upon. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present disclosure is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior disclosure. Further, the dates of publication provided herein can be different from the actual publication dates, which can require independent confirmation.

The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

While the specification includes examples, the disclosure's scope is indicated by the following claims. Furthermore, while the specification has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, the claims are not limited to the features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example for embodiments of the disclosure.

Insofar as the description above and the accompanying drawing disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the disclosures are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claims such additional disclosures is reserved.

Although very narrow claims are presented herein, it should be recognized the scope of this disclosure is much broader than presented by the claims. It is intended that broader claims will be submitted in an application that claims the benefit of priority from this application. 

What is claimed:
 1. A multi-part sole and heel assembly comprising: a) a sole portion configured to attach to an upper or midsole of an article of footwear, the sole portion comprising: a first sole layer having an inner and outer surface, said first sole layer comprising an opening disposed within outer edges of the first sole layer; and a second sole layer having an inner and outer surface, said second heel layer comprising a raised area disposed on the outer surface, the raised area being shaped, dimensioned, and positioned to correspond with the opening of the first sole layer; and b) a heel portion configured to attach to heel member of an article of footwear, the heel portion comprising: a first heel layer having an inner and outer surface, said first heel layer comprising an opening disposed within outer edges of the first heel layer; a second heel layer comprising a raised area disposed on the outer surface, the raised area being shaped, dimensioned, and positioned to correspond with the opening of the first heel layer; and an elongated member extending from a central portion of configured to attach to a heel member of an article of footwear.
 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein when the first and second sole layers are coupled, the raised area fits within the opening to allow remaining outer surface of the second sole layer to couple with the inner surface of the first sole layer; and wherein the raised area has a greater thickness than the first sole layer.
 3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the thickness of the raised area of the second sole layer may be thicker than the thickness of the first sole layer such that when the first and second sole layer are coupled, an outermost surface of the raised area is above the adjacent outer surface of the first sole layer.
 4. The assembly of claim 3, wherein the raised area of the second sole layer corresponds to the area of the foot that firsts contacts the ground during ambulation.
 5. The assembly of claim 4, wherein the raised area of the second sole layer comprises a material having sound-dampening properties.
 6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the first sole layer and second sole layer comprise at least two different durometer urethane plastics.
 7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein when the first and second sole heel are coupled, the raised area fits within the opening to allow remaining outer surface of the second heel layer to couple with the inner surface of the first heel layer; and wherein the raised area has a greater thickness than the first heel layer.
 8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the thickness of the raised area of the second heel layer may be thicker than the thickness of the first heel layer such that when the first and second heel layer are coupled, an outermost surface of the raised area is above the adjacent outer surface of the first heel layer.
 9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein the raised area of the second heel layer corresponds to the area of the heel that firsts contacts the ground during ambulation.
 10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the raised area of the second heel layer comprises a material having sound-dampening properties.
 11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the first and second heel layer comprise at least two different durometer urethane plastics.
 12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein the elongated member of the heel portion extends out from a central area of the first heel layer or second heel layer; and wherein the heel portion is configured to affix to the base of a heel member using the elongated member.
 13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein each raised area comprises a surface-contacting portion configured to contact the ground.
 14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein each surface-contacting portion is disposed over a sound-dampening material selected from rubber, high density cushioning foam, compressible foam, and gel.
 15. A multi-part sole comprising: a first sole layer having an inner and outer surface, said first sole layer comprising an opening disposed within outer edges of the first sole layer; and a second sole layer having an inner and outer surface, said second heel layer comprising a raised area disposed on the outer surface, the raised area being shaped, dimensioned, and positioned to correspond with the opening of the first sole layer.
 16. The sole of claim 15, wherein when the first and second sole layers are coupled, the raised area fits within the opening to allow remaining outer surface of the second sole layer to couple with the inner surface of the first sole layer; and wherein the raised area has a greater thickness than the first sole layer.
 17. The sole of claim 16, wherein the thickness of the raised area of the second sole layer may be thicker than the thickness of the first sole layer such that when the first and second sole layer are coupled, an outermost surface of the raised area is above the adjacent outer surface of the first sole layer.
 18. The sole of claim 17, wherein the raised area of the second sole layer corresponds to the area of the foot that firsts contacts the ground during ambulation.
 19. The sole of claim 18, wherein the raised area of the second sole layer comprises a surface-contacting portion configured to contact the ground; and wherein the surface-contacting portion is disposed over a material having sound-dampening properties.
 20. A method for dampening sound generated by an article of footwear during locomotion, the method comprising: a) attaching the assembly of claim 14 to an article of footwear comprising a heel member; and b) using the article of footwear in connection with locomotion. 